Same source image. This was the first “real” thing from reference I tried to paint since the mid 90s. I figured after a year I’d try again and see how I’ve progressed. What do you think?
The 2024 version
Timelapse https://mastodon.social/@BallShapedMan/115256481266601680
Your 2025 version gives me anxiety… which isn’t a bad thing because it’s definitely got character. But it’s no quaint farmhouse.
It’s the harsh lines creating movement in different directions, the disjointed porportions, the lighting — like a lovely summer day— in contrast with the deadness of what should be a lush background. Meanwhile, the demon tree of pain is drawing focus like a DMT nightmare.
Did you take the goddamn fear toxin before painting this?
I love it. I would honestly hang it up because it’s got a vibe.
I didn’t see it that way until you mentioned it. Instead of accidental renaissance it’s accidental terror. Bob Ross would call it a terrible little accident lol.
Thank you!
Bob Ross would be an angel about it.
But to me, the problem could be trying to find shortcuts to paint what it seems like instead of what it is. If you want a more accurate representation, try to be ridiculously intentional with every line, no cutting corners. Picasso could draw realistically before he experimented with cubism.
On the other hand, lean into this disconcerting theme and at least everything you do will be interesting.
Thank you!